Diva Don't!

Diva don't even think about putting "cash is preferred in lieu of traditional gifts" on your shower invitation. This is a trend that seems to have caught on recently from invitations I've received, to brides' telling me point blank this is what they want printed on their shower invites. Really? When did this become okay?
Even though many of us would prefer cash or gift cards rather than the crystal punch bowl your mom made you register for...it's never okay to put this on your invitation. Making your wedding your own is great, but there are some etiquette rules that are there because it's just simply correct.
Okay, so you hate the punch bowl you registered for...keep it, you may like it down the road...or better still, remember gifts are returnable and gift cards are often given in their stead. Return it and get the beer steins you really wanted, but couldn't dare to put on the registry with your fine china. So, don't fret, a Diva will always get her way, but doing it with class is a definite Diva Do!

Thankful Diva

You just broke the heel of your brand new pair of Cole Haan’s, while the turkey needs basting and your husband just won’t pull himself away from the idiot tube for one second to let in your ever so wonderful in-laws, as they ring the door bell over and over…and you just have to say to yourself, “Yes, I am thankful”. I’m thankful for designer bags and good hair days and those mornings when I wake up and realize I can go back to bed because I don’t have to go to work. But really, I’m thankful for the people in my life that make my everyday a little more bearable. Yes, I’m an EPD, but I’d never be able to put on the tiniest of parties if it wasn’t for the local florist that knows me by name and helps me pick out a great arrangement…or my mom who sends along her recipe for pineapple au gratin when a dinner party just popped up…or the best friend that’s always willing to bring over a bottle of wine and get their early to help with the finishing touches.
So, yes, I’m thankful for my ever so perfect hoop earrings which are appropriate for every event, but I’m most thankful for the people in my life that make everyday more fun and give me a reason to plan events for family & friends. So, here’s to mastering the centerpiece and getting the lumps out of your mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving. Cheers!

Check out these sites for a little help on getting your Thanksgiving plans all squared away…

Center piece ideas:
http://www.bhg.com/holidays/thanksgiving/indoor-decorating/easy-centerpieces-for-thanksgiving/

Creative placecards:
http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/thanksgiving-table-settings

Even I can cook this:
http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/Pages/home.aspx

Diva Don't of the Day!

Don't just sign a contract for an event vendor without reading it first! Make sure you understand what you are paying for, how much you are paying and when each payment is due. Additionally before you sign make sure you know what will happen in cases of weather emergencies, union strikes or cancelled events. Also write in provisions you discuss with the venue representative and ask them to sign the updated contract---if they promise you an extra hour free for event set-up, get it in writing!

Diva Don't of the Day

When selecting menus from vendors, don't just pick from the choices they offer on their website or handouts---ask the Chef to help customize your event menu! This can include using more seasonal ingredients and flavors, accomodating any allergies and also just being more creative! Also ask the chef if regular menu items can be presented in new ways: small plates, miniture burgers or beef wellingtons, soup in shot glasses, etc. Mini-stations are a great alternative to a plated dinner, but ensure your guests will leave with full tummies!

Cheap, but Chic DIY Centerpiece

Purchase cylinder shaped vases at any craft store or floral supplier and top with chinese lanterns, just add water and a waterproof LED light for a modern, affordable and chic centerpiece!

Diva DO of the Day

If planning an out of town wedding, family reunion or party, be sure to check with the local visitor's bureau at your destination. This group can provide maps, agendas, "things to do" guides and more---and best of all, usually FREE! If providing a welcome bag for your guests, be sure to ask about hats, shirts and other items that can be provided at cost with that area's name or logo.

Diva Do of the Day!

When planning your next event, consider making your next event “green”. Oftentimes, it’s difficult to incorporate eco friendly practices; but giving even a little TLC to Mother Earth is a step in the right direction. Check out these Web sites on ways to make your next event a little more earth friendly.

HOSTING A GREEN EVENT:
http://www.wikihow.com/Host-a-Green-Event

GREEN WEDDING:
http://www.wikihow.com/Have-a-Green-Wedding

DINNERWARE FROM FALLEN LEAVES:
http://www.verterra.com/index.php